Contractors work to resume projects following IDOT closure

by Cymphanie Sherman, Fox Illinois

Following the state passing a budget on July 6, IDOT was able to reopen. (Cymphanie Sherman)

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WRSP) —

Illinois is feeling the effects of the two-year budget impasse on its roadways. On July 1, IDOT had to shut down due to not having any funding. This led to every state-funded construction project stopping in its tracks.

Following the state passing a budget on July 6, IDOT was able to reopen. However, the closure cost the state $20 million due to shutting down and reopening projects.

“Two million dollars a day for idle equipment out there and other costs,” said Bill Frey, executive director of Associated General Contractors.

According to IDOT, there were 20,000 workers who lost their job.

Now contractors have been given the green light to resume work, meaning they have to rehire each worker they just laid off.

Frey said it will take time for construction projects to get back to normal, due to losing a week of work.

“They’ll do anything they can, but it may cost a little more money to speed them up and get things back on schedule,” explained Frey.